1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2004 Toyota Highlander is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Highlander (230 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 190 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Toyota Highlander (329 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
